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  • Course of Conduct

Course of Conduct

Sam Johnstone #7 / 9
by James Chandler
Course of Conduct (Sam Johnstone #7) by James Chandler
⧗ 9.00 / 2
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For one small-town lawyer, the defense of a client could be his undoing at the hands of another…

In the latest twist of fate, defense attorney Sam Johnstone confronts a formidable challenge: defending a renowned surgeon accused of domestic battery against her estranged husband, who happens to be a local attorney. This seemingly straightforward misdemeanor case spirals into a complex murder trial, where Sam must show his client acted in self-defense. But the courtroom isn't his only battleground.

Sam finds himself in a difficult situation when a former lover, obsessed with him, directs threatening attention towards him and his client. He faces a tough choice: striving for success in the courtroom or focusing on safety outside of it.

From Wall Street Journal bestselling author James Chandler comes the seventh book in the Sam Johnstone legal thriller series. This page turner is perfect for fans of John Grisham, James Patterson, and C.J. Box.

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Release date: May 13, 2025

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James Chandler

James Chandler

James Chandler writes with the kind of sharp edge that pulls readers into his world, where thrilling mysteries and intricate puzzles unfold at every turn. Known for his gripping tales of crime and suspense, Chandler creates stories that don’t just challenge the intellect—they tap into the very essence of what makes us question the truth.

Born with a love for storytelling, Chandler's journey into writing began early, nurtured by an insatiable curiosity and a keen interest in the darker aspects of human nature. With each of his books, he invites readers to peer into a world of deception, secrets, and relentless pursuit, where nothing is ever as simple as it first appears.

Read more ...

Chandler's work is marked by its intricately woven plots and carefully constructed characters, all set against the backdrop of taut, suspenseful atmospheres. His stories often center around morally complex individuals navigating complex conspiracies, where the stakes are as high as the tension is thick. Drawing from a blend of personal experience and a profound understanding of psychological depth, Chandler’s narratives often explore the fine line between justice and revenge, right and wrong.

Though his books are compelling, it’s his mastery of pace and tone that truly sets him apart. Chandler knows how to build tension—layer by layer—until it crescendos in a gripping twist that leaves readers breathless. Fans of the genre have found themselves addicted to his fast-paced plots, nuanced characters, and unpredictable endings, making Chandler a name to watch in the world of contemporary crime thrillers.

With a growing reputation among fans and critics alike, James Chandler's novels continue to carve out their place in the thriller genre. Each new release promises an even deeper dive into the shadows of the human experience, leaving readers eagerly awaiting the next twist. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to his work, one thing is certain: Chandler’s books will keep you on the edge of your seat, wondering just what comes next.

Sam Johnstone

The Sam Johnstone series is a gripping blend of legal suspense and personal discovery, where every case brings not just a new challenge, but a fresh layer to the enigmatic journey of its protagonist. Set in the stark yet beautiful landscapes of Wyoming, the series follows Sam Johnstone—a military veteran turned lawyer—as he navigates a world where the line between right and wrong often blurs. With each new case, Sam grapples with his own moral compass while uncovering deep truths that challenge both his intellect and personal convictions.

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In Misjudged, the series begins with Sam relocating to a quiet town, eager to leave behind the weight of his past. But the case of a mysterious murder quickly pulls him back into the world he thought he had escaped. As the stakes rise with every case, from the fallout of a college athlete’s alleged crime in One and Done to the sinister undercurrents of high-profile business dealings in Capital Justice, Sam faces decisions that aren't just about what the law says—but what justice truly means.

What makes the Sam Johnstone series stand out is its authenticity. Each case isn’t just a puzzle for Sam to solve; it’s a window into his soul. His battle with personal demons, from past military experiences to grappling with his own biases, provides readers with a deeply relatable, yet complex character. The raw emotional depth interwoven with the intellectual rigor of legal drama creates an atmosphere that feels both immediate and immersive.

The series expertly combines intricate legal cases with the quiet power of a personal journey. Readers aren’t just along for the ride through courtroom dramas and morally ambiguous characters—they’re watching Sam evolve, one case at a time. Each book peels back layers of his character, revealing the emotional cost of doing the right thing in a world that often rewards the opposite.

With its slow-burn intensity, compelling character arcs, and intricate plotting, the Sam Johnstone series is a must for those who appreciate legal thrillers that dive deep into the human psyche. Whether Sam is dealing with the fallout from a manipulated witness in The Truthful Witness or facing an ethical dilemma that could change everything in Course of Conduct, every story promises to keep readers on edge—questioning not just the law, but the nature of truth itself.

For fans of legal drama, suspenseful mysteries, and unforgettable characters, the Sam Johnstone series is a journey that will resonate long after the last page is turned.


Sam Johnstone consists of eight books and series is set to expand with the upcoming release of one more book. The current recommended reading order for the series is provided below.

Misjudged (Sam Johnstone #1)
Unrated
One and Done (Sam Johnstone #2)
Unrated
False Evidence (Sam Johnstone #3)
Unrated
Capital Justice (Sam Johnstone #4)
Unrated
The Truthful Witness (Sam Johnstone #5)
Unrated
Conflict of Duty (Sam Johnstone #6)
⧗ 8.00 / 1
Course of Conduct (Sam Johnstone #7)
⧗ 9.00 / 2
Reasonable Suspicion (Sam Johnstone #8)
⧗ 8.00 / 1
Sam Johnstone Book 9 (Sam Johnstone #9)
⧗ 8.00 / 1


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